Summary We have faith in the new CEC but the role of other members is controversial, says PTI Vice Chairman.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday demanded to change four members of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) adding that the members must step down complying to moral obligation.
“We have faith in the new CEC but the role of other members is controversial.” said Shah Mehmood.
Delegation comprising PTI leaders Arif Alvi, Hamid Khan, Shireen Mazari, Saifullah Niazi led by Shah Mehmood Qureshi met CEC Justice Sardar Raza in Islamabad.
He said people have put their faith in Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) now it’s his responsibility to restore trust in ECP adding that premise of democracy rests in transparent elections.
Authority of CEC has diminished after the 18th amendment, Fakhruddin G Ibrahim therefore faced adversity in the wake of the limited power he had, he added.
The delegation congratulated newly appointed CEC and presented their apprehensions regarding the electoral system.
Issues regarding the loss incurred due to usage of magnetic ink, variant contrasting statements of ECP over printing of ballot papers and power of ECP over Returning Officers (ROs) were brought to notice.
He said they suggested to introduce biometric systems and methods of electronic voting that would ensure transparency so people may know that their vote can bring change.
He further said that the parliamentary committee has been working on electoral reforms but since none of PTI members could be a part of the committee, they would present their suggestions, which could be implemented if deemed plausible.
Referring to the tribunals he said it is the responsibility of tribunals to ensure timely verdicts but there have been delays adding that it took Hamid Khan 1.5 months to get polling bags identified and more so there still are a few missing bags whereas Ayaz Sadiq’s reservations over NA-122 depicts his bad intent.
Access to the details of Form 14 and 15 is the due right of the state citizens whereas ECP must also have access the details, he added.
Shah Mehmood said change in system is the prime intention of the reforms and not personal gains.
PTI extended their well wishes and support to the fresh CEC.
